A live and online audience enjoyed an inspirational evening with renowned arts advocate Will Gompertz at the University’s recent Creative Networks event.
Speaking on the importance of arts and creativity, both in education and wider society, Gompertz entertained as he traced the origins of some of modern artist most famous creatives, from Pablo Picasso to Piet Mondrian, Paul Cezanne to Bridget Riley, encouraging emerging creatives to ‘learn the rules’, then have fun finding ways to break them.
Image credit: Luke Holroyd/Chris Werrett
As the future looks set to become more and mre automated, Gompertz anticipated an increased recognition the importance of the arts as an area of value, as creativity is a uniquely human quality that cannot be replicated by machines. He went on to consider the role education can play in both encouraging and restricting creativity putting forward his proposal that “all schools should be art schools” where students should be encouraged to collaborate, be curious, ask questions and challenge the status quo.
Elli Whitefoot, Assistant Manager, Careers, Employability and Enterprise said: “Creative Networks were delighted to welcome Will Gompertz who delivered a fascinating and inspirational talk to staff, students and visitors. It was wonderful to see people on the campus once again and we are looking forward to continuing to welcome live audiences to our upcoming events.”
Image credit: Luke Holroyd/Chris Werrett
Will Gompertz has led the Barbican Centre’s artistic direction and wide-raging education programmes since June 2021, adding the role of interim joint Managing Director in September 2021. His ambitious artistic vision aims to build on the Barbican’s role as a world-class international arts centre by investing in emerging talent, closely collaborating with its local communities, and increasing inclusivity and diversity among its staff, collaborators, and audiences.
Creative Networks is Leeds Arts University’s major professional events programme with talks from high profile speakers from across the creative industries who entertain, challenge and inspire.